TNAG-2675-FCO40-3872-Hong-Kong-garrison-withdrawal-plan-1993 — Page 41

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SECRET UK EYES A

and international circles) support for and acceptance of military

decisions and the rationale behind them.

36. The PR/P Info Plan for the withdrawal of the Garrison should

continue to be reviewed and developed on a rolling basis. It should be

briefed to the Hong Kong Steering Committee at 6 monthly intervals. It

should take account of the handling of PR/P Info to 1997 and of the

PR/P Info organisation required to achieve this. The size and

seniority of PR/P Info staff should be kept under review. To ensure

continuity, changes to core PR manpower should cease after early 1995.

Responsibility for overall PR/P Info direction in Hong Kong rests with

the Press Secretary in MOD, although the management of day to day

issues will be controlled by CBF through the HQBF PR/P Info staff. The

potential sensitivities of the rundown of the Garrison underline the

need for continuing close liaison between MOD, CBF, the HKG and the

FCO: facilitated by a Press Policy Group (PPG), and ensuring the

development of coordinated PR and P Info policy.

THE LAST 12 MONTHS AND SUPPORT FOR THE FINAL DEPARTURE

37. The 1991 Review included a brief discussion of BFHK in the Last

12 Months. It concluded that at least one battalion plus supporting

elements would be required until 30 June 1997, and that the final

withdrawal of these forces might require the support of a Naval Task

22

SECRET UK EYES A

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